Flashing Yellow Arrow

In an effort to minimize the safety concerns with left turn movements, a national study was conducted to determine the most effective way to alert drivers when to yield to oncoming traffic. This study showed the Flashing Yellow Arrow (FYA) was safer and more effective than a simple circular green ball that is typically used.

Cities across the country are installing FYAs, and the City of Helena/State of Montana are no exceptions. With the installation of FYAs, traffic will be able to perform the left turn movement more safely and with less confusion. Below is an image of an intersection with the flashing yellow left turn light installed in Helena.

The city of Helena does not own the majority of traffic signals in our city, most are owned and operated by the State Department of Transportation. The State is responsible for the timing and engineering of the lights, while we share a signal technician for maintenance and repair. For more information on this topic, click here.State and National Information about FYAs:

The following is a list of helpful websites that give more information on FYAs.